Call of Hope
GIVING TUESDAY

This Giving Tuesday make an eternal impact. For the price of a new Christmas sweater that will eventually be tattered and forgotten; you can give a gift that will never fade - freedom from economic limitations, and eternal freedom in Christ.

GIVING TUESDAY

The Sewing Center: Equipping Young Women with Valuable Trade Skills and The Message of Christ

As the sun beats down on a blisteringly hot day, who in the world would be outside covered head-to-toe in all black? The answer…millions of women in India. 

You see, India is home to more Muslims than any other country besides Indonesia. In both Indian culture and the religion of Islam, life for women is extremely difficult.  

Some areas of India are nearly 100% Muslim and many have not even heard the name of Jesus! In these locations, Call of Hope frontline workers have a practical ministry that is equipping young women with a valuable trade skill, and presenting the love and message of Christ.

The Sewing Center

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In the Uttar Pradesh region, frontline workers have started a vocational training school to teach women how to sew. As they go through the curriculum, these young ladies learn the basics of operating a small tailoring businesses. In addition to learning a practical skill to support themselves and their families; these Muslim women are also hearing stories from the Bible and most importantly, the saving message of Christ. Recently, 30 women from Muslim families graduated from the sewing center! As diplomas were handed out, several of the girls were given a chance to share their testimonies, sing worship songs, recite their favorite Bible verse and more. All of this, in a part of the city that is nearly 100% Muslim.

A Muslim Girl Becomes a Christian Businesswoman

The sewing center facility is rented from a devout Muslim man within the village. When the man learned that the building was being used not only to teach sewing, but to teach the Bible – he was furious! In fact, the landlord’s very own daughter, Faitima, was attending the sewing school! His initial reaction was to terminate the lease contract and shut down the school, but he noticed such a dramatic change in his daughter's life, that he hesitated.

Not only did Fatima become remarkably proficient with her sewing skills, she was also strikingly more joyful at home. She would often come home singing songs about Jesus and she boldly told her parents that after reading the Bible she had become a Christian! Although her father was angry about Fatima new faith in Christ, he was so astounded with her transformation in attitude, that he has begun to accepted it. Despite her father’s wishes for her to remain quite about her faith, Fatima cannot help but talk about the love of Christ!

Fatima is just one of many who have come to faith in Christ in the training school. As the young women begin to operate their own businesses, many have become testimonies of the love and faithfulness of God! Through the sewing center in India, and through the power of the Gospel, Muslim women are being mobilized and empowered to learn a trade and acquire the ability to care for their families. They have become a shining light for Christ! 

How can you be a part of this life-changing project?

For just $150 you can sponsor a student from enrollment to graduation at our sewing school. Over the year long curriculum, you’re giving them more than just the chance to learn a sewing skill; you’re giving freedom from economic limitations, and eternal freedom in Christ. Imagine the lasting impact you can have on the life of a young girl for just $150.

Will you partner with us to empower women in India’s society and share the message of Christ to the Muslim world? Click GIVE NOW to become a part of this life changing project.

Small scale models of clothing articles hang on the wall to give sewing students an example to follow.

Give once, or partner with us to support this project monthly!

Frontline workers desperately need your prayer, sign up to become a prayer partner today.

Mariam’s Courageous Faith Encourages Women in the Bekaa Valley

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you… — Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

Mariam’s story truly shows us how strong faith and trust in God can turn things around when times get tough. She was a proud Lebanese Muslim woman from the Druze community who first appeared at our doorstep over a year ago just to pick up a food package. Little did we know, that was just the start of her weekly visits, each time providing an atmosphere of joy that was simply contagious.

She became a regular at our women's meetings led by Sister Sara, always taking her place at the front. Soon Mariam embraced the truths from Gods word she heard at the meetings and placed her faith and trust in Jesus Christ! But then, life brought its storm! Just a few weeks ago, in the middle of a meeting, Mariam passed out due to low blood sugar. As we waited anxiously for the paramedics to take her to the hospital, it was obvious how caring and close our community had become. Sara stayed with Mariam the entire time, offering support until her husband could take over, while the rest of the group urgently prayed!

As it turned out, Mariam hadn't eaten anything because she had been busy taking care of her son with epilepsy, making sure he was okay before she left for the meeting that meant so much to her. Despite the chaos swirling around in her life, these meetings were her safe-haven, a place where she could cast her cares upon Jesus!

Then, another shock – her 21-year-old son had a serious health scare on the street. Despite the heavy hearts, everyone's faith didn't waver; we all prayed for another miracle.

Sure enough, Mariam told us that her son had a miraculously quick recovery that baffled the doctors, encouraging the faith of our entire community!

Mariam’s resilience through all the storms of life has left us amazed. She's found a strong and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, giving all the credit for her and her son's survival to His mercy and grace! Through the support and fellowship of her new sisters and brothers, Mariam is learning and growing in her faith, and showing everyone that the joy of the Lord truly is her strength!

As we get closer to International Women’s Day on March 8, please join us in celebrating with prayer for Mariam and the women like her, daring to remain steadfast, in their faith and willing to share their faith with other women in dangerous Muslim communities around the world.

How You can Pray

  • Please join us in this Call to Prayer for the women in Lebanon as we continue to reach Muslims for Christ!

  • Pray for continued good health for Mariam and her family.

  • Please pray for protection and boldness for the women and co-workers participating in our weekly meetings, vocational training classes, correspondence courses and services.

  • Pray also that Muslim women yearning for the freedom Christ offers, will discover our programs and be able to join. As many of these women accept their inheritance in Christ and bravely give their life to Him, we are seeing changed lives and families!

Tens of thousands of Muslims hear the Gospel of Christ and see His love in action in 2023

The prayers of the saints, faithful support of partners like you, and the blessing of the Lord enabled us to be a shining light for Christ throughout the Muslim world this year! Despite the many challenges experienced globally, Frontline Workers have seen God bring thousands of new Muslim seekers to hear the saving message of the Gospel, with many putting their faith in Jesus!

Bro. Ali Hassan is one. Ali’s family has close ties to Hezbollah in Baalbek, and he works in Lebanese army intelligence in Beirut. Being away from family, Ali felt lonely until he was befriended by a Christian family. He was amazed at their acceptance and love. This birthed an interest to understand more about their faith in Jesus. So, they introduced Ali to our Frontline Worker, Brother Touma.

Brother Touma gave Ali a Bible and met regularly with him to discuss his questions. As Ali learned more about Jesus and His love, he desired to belong to Christ too. Soon Ali committed his life to Christ, boldly proclaiming, “I want to have Christ, no matter the cost I will have to pay. I am not a Muslim anymore; I am a Christian! I am very blessed in my new faith. The love that I found with Jesus, I want it to be present in my own life and in the life of my family.”

Throughout the Muslim world, Call of Hope co-workers are sharing the love of Jesus with many, like Ali, who are longing to know God’s love for truth and have assurance of salvation. Thanks to gracious partners like you, this year we reached hundreds of thousands with the message of hope!

In Lebanon

Lebanon - In the chaos of the collapsing economy and continued violence at the borders in Lebanon, we have provided more than 4,000 families with food parcels; distributed 500 mattresses with blankets; given 3,000 pairs of shoes to children; assisted with heating fuel; and handed out Bibles and evangelistic literature to 25,000 people in the Bekaa Valley, as well as in the refugee camps. As a result, 400 new believers put their faith in Christ and 550 people are being discipled through various outreach gatherings. Our work with the blind and disabled also continues as life skills, vocational training, and medical care are provided for adults and children alike.

In Nigeria

Nigeria - Attacks in Nigeria from terror groups like Boko Haram, and the Fulani Militia continue. The activity of kidnappers and armed bandits has increased in the northern region. Despite this hardship, Call of Hope Nigeria continues its courageous work to bring aid and the Good News to many Muslims in the north.

This year the Goat Project offered hope and opportunity to children in 15 new villages, allowing them to pursue a good education with a bright future. Safe, clean water was provided through new wells. Medical outreaches brought hope and health to thousands across the region, and essential food supplies were delivered to those displaced by terror attacks in their villages. Most importantly, Bibles and evangelistic booklets provide on-going comfort to Christians and Muslim seekers alike. As we have shown the love of Jesus to those experiencing tragedy, many have found the peace of God and placed their faith and trust in Jesus!

in Pakistan

Pakistan - A surge in violence against Christians this year resulted in the burning of 25 churches as well as the looting and destruction of Christian’s homes in the region. Call of Hope co-workers quickly responded offering medical assistance, food, water, blankets, clothing and other essentials to 200 impacted families. Evangelistic efforts continue despite the persecutions with over 15,000 booklets distributed to those open to learning more about Jesus. Our teams also provide care to Afghan refugees who have fled Taliban rule. 

In India

India - In North India, Call of Hope teams are helping Afghan refugee families acclimatize to their new home with planned outings at parks, organized sports for the children, as well as various educational programs and vocational training. Elsewhere in India, co-workers continue to care for those in need in the form of medical treatment (a first for some), vocational training in the form of sewing schools for young, ostracized women, and even English classes for children. And former-Muslims are coming to Christ every day!

Digital media and radio continue to reach hundreds of thousands of seeking Muslims in places like Morocco, Jordan, Indonesia, Syria, Iran, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Albania, Sudan, and more. Every day our teams get text messages, letters and phone calls from people throughout the Islamic world wanting to know more about Jesus and His love. Over time, many of them also become followers of Christ!

The devastating economic condition in many places is making life very difficult and painful. But it is also providing new opportunities to share the message of Jesus as our Frontline Workers are able to demonstrate the love of Jesus in the form of food parcels, warm blankets and fuel to families as well as shoes and even education for the children! One of the safest and easiest ways to open the conversation with those in need is through the distribution of food parcels, other supplies and literature directly to them. Each encounter opens the door for sharing a warm smile and the Good News of God’s love! The needs are great in places like Lebanon, Nigeria, Pakistan and India where those who have fled oppression struggle to survive. 

Yours in Christ,

Ron Chiricosta (Executive Director) and Stefano Fehr (President)


A gift of $60 or more can share Jesus with a struggling family through food parcels, heating fuel, blankets and literature specifically designed to reach Muslims. 

As you think about year-end gifts to honor what God has done in your life this year, please consider giving a generous gift to share His love with the oppressed who long to know that love as well as suffering for their faith. Will you help families survive the coming winter?

In Matt. 25:30 Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” What could be more perfect than providing food, warmth and the Gospel to the hurting and hungry at this time of year?

What are the differences between Islam and Christianity?

Today, most people prefer to talk about the similarities between Christianity and Islam, rather than stir the pot and create more conflict. However, understanding the basic tenants of Islam and how they compare with the truths of the Bible, is very important! You may be surprised to find out how different they really are! But, by comparing the apostles creed to the main teachings of Islam, you will see a stark difference!

What do Muslims believe about Jesus?

Apostles Creed: “We believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord…”

Muslims Believe: Jesus Christ is not the Son of God, but one of Allah’s creatures, like every other man. They believe that even though Christians call Jesus the “Son of God“, that one day, Jesus will affirm to Allah, that he had never claimed to be God. According to Islamic teachings, Jesus is a completely normal human being, and Allah gave to him the honor to be one of his greatest prophets.

What do Muslims believe about God the Father?

Apostles Creed: “We believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.”

Muslims believe:  Allah is no father, to call him “father“ is absolute blasphemy.

“He has never had offspring, nor was He born. And there is none comparable to Him.” Quran 112:3+4

Unlike the loving picture of God the Father, Allah is portrayed as an absolute ruler who does whatever he wants, unpredictable, and unaccountable. One of the sayings of Mohammed reads: “He is the king of the worlds and men are his slaves. Can a slave ask his master why he does this or that?” Allah can reward the wicked with his paradise and punish the devout with his hell.

What do Muslims believe about the resurrection?

Apostles Creed: “he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again” 

Muslims believe: “Jesus was not killed or crucified. That’s why he was not buried and he is never risen. Allah saved him by a trick from crucifixion and then lifted him up to himself.”

Koranic commentaries describe in detail how Allah saved Jesus from death and took him to "heaven". This had happened the same evening when the Jews tried to arrest Jesus. First the Jews mistook a disciple for Jesus and took him away. Then "the Holy Spirit" came and took Jesus to heaven through an opening in the roof. Unlike Mohammed, Jesus did not die, but is alive. According to Islamic teachings, he is in "heaven". The proof of Jesus' stay in "heaven" is the "ascension" of Mohammed. During this "journey", Mohammed met Jesus on the second floor of heaven, which proves that Jesus is alive and in heaven.

What do Muslims believe about the return of Jesus? 

Apostles Creed: he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.



Muslims believe: “Jesus will come again to give victory to Islam. He will fight Christianity, invite all people to accept Islam and start a mass killing of all Jews.”

Mohammed says: "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, surely (Jesus,) the son of Mary will soon descend amongst you and will judge mankind justly (as a Just Ruler); he will break the Cross and kill the pigs…“

At his Second Coming, Jesus will also invite all people, including Christians, to accept Islam. Allah will then destroy all religious communities except Muslims.

What do Muslims believe about forgiveness?

Apostles Creed: The forgiveness of sins…

Muslims believe: No one can know if and whom Allah forgives.

Allah can forgive Muslims all their sins except the biggest sin in Islam: to believe that Allah has a son. They mean Jesus Christ. No one can know if and whom Allah forgives. Very often we read in the Koran: “He forgives whoever He wills, and punishes whoever He wills."

Mohammed alone received the promise from Allah that Allah had forgiven him for his earlier and “later sins”. Nevertheless, Mohammed begged Allah to forgive him and be merciful 100 times a day until his death. If Muslims avoid big sins such as murdering a Muslim, committing sodomy or fleeing the battlefield, Allah can forgive them for the small sins such as cheating, false oath, defamation, and so on.

Despite claims that “Muslims and Christians” serve the same God, we can see the reality is drastically different! For more than 100 years Call of Hope has been sharing the Good News of freedom and forgiveness in Jesus to Muslims all across the world. To learn more about how to reach Muslims in your own community, please read When you meet a Muslim or Take Action through prayer, giving and more!

Samira Finds New Hope in India After Fleeing Afghanistan

Samira and her family fled Afghanistan when the brutality and terror of the Taliban took control. Fearing for their lives, Samira, along with her husband and 4 children sought refuge in Delhi, India. But life in the sprawling city posed its own set of challenges. Their refugee status was not recognized by the Indian Government nor the UNHCR, due to her husband's previous military involvement in Afghanistan. This left them without the necessary support and aid, and with her husband's health deteriorating, they found themselves in a desperate situation.

In this time of hardship, God led them a project run by the Call of Hope team. This initiative provided much-needed support to Samira’s family, particularly her children.

At the language center, Samira’s children flourished! Within the first few months they were speaking English to each other, an astounding accomplishment considering they came to the center knowing only their native tongues.

Afghan refugee children coming together at the Call of Hope center for their lessons.

Call of Hope also provided them with medical examinations, educational support, sports equipment, and even occasional picnic outings. For Samira and other Afghan women, these picnics marked their first venture outside their homes without their husbands – a liberating experience.

Amidst her trials, Samira encountered Mary*, a lady from the New Hope project. During a heart-to-heart conversation, Mary offered to pray for Samira, a simple act of faith that marked Samira’s first experience of prayer. Mary read from her Bible and prayed in the name of Jesus Christ interceding for Samira’s family's health, her children's education, their financial situation, and her personal issues.

This moment served as a spiritual turning point for Samira. She was introduced to the Gospel in a language she could understand, Farsi; and, over time, she began to pray in the name of Jesus, drawing peace and comfort from her newfound faith.

How you can pray:

Pray for more refugees like Samira to be led to our work in India, that they may find comfort and aid in their time of need.

Pray for peace in Delhi as the anti-Christian violence persists in India.

Pray for continued support towards our work in India, to allow for more medicines, food, classes, and sewing machines.

 

Consider a one-time contribution to our work with refugees in India!

Urgent Prayer Needed! Violence Throughout Sudan Escalates

Last Saturday our co-worker in Sudan, Br. Amir*, called us. In the background we could hear the sounds of rapid gunfire and the bomb explosions.

Fighting between the Sudanese army led by General Abdelfattah Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanded by Mohammed Daglo has been going on for several days now, especially in the capital city, Khartoum.

Military ordinance from the fights in someone’s home in Khartoum.

On Saturday, Bro. Amir said, "Please pray for us. We are at war. There's gunfire right around us. We can't get out. Please pray that none of our staff and converts are harmed. May God end the fighting soon.”

And while all our co-workers in the area are confirmed safe for now, there is no water or electricity in the city which is now a warzone. In fact, this is the most uncertainty faced by the nation since the coup of 2019 that ousted dictator Omar al-Bashir.

hen, only two days ago, Bro. Amir followed up with shocking news as the fighting continued. He said, “I am asking for prayer very urgently. There was shooting around our church. Parts of the church are now on fire. My office was also set on fire. The shootings continue. There is still no electricity and no water and people are hiding at home.”

Another building on fire, as residents rush to find any source of water to extinguish the flames while emergency services, water, and electricity remain unavailable.

Nobody knows what will happen next. There could very easily be a long and bloody civil war in the country, and yesterday Bro. Amir confirmed he was able to safely leave the city. He reported, “As soon as the fighting makes it possible again, I will return to Khartoum.”

How you can join us in prayer:

  • Please pray for the safety of our many co-workers in Sudan.

  • Pray that access to water and electricity will be restored soon.

  • Pray for the many affected, forced to flee to other neighboring cities.

  • Pray for peace to reign in the area before more damage is done.

  • Pray that our new brothers in sisters in Christ will remain steadfast in their faith!

Please also prayerfully considering a one-time donation to our work in Sudan.

World Water Day: We Have Decided To Be Jesus Followers

Imagine walking hours in the scorching sun to draw water from a shrinking lake. It’s the same place cattle, goats, and wild animals drink and bathe. Every day there are thousands of other people jostling for a spot to get water too!

This is a reality for villages across northern Ghana and Nigeria. Often women will drag their children along as they fetch water in the middle of the night – the only time they can get close to the lake. The situation is desperate with water sources drying up and the search for water takes them farther and farther from home. Everyone suffers. Children miss school or sleep through lessons. Sickness from unclean water is common. Bathing and washing clothes are no longer possible.

That is why Call of Hope has started drilling wells in villages throughout the region. Just a few months ago Brother Abukari brought a crew to the village of Sambu to drill a well! Another COH Frontline Worker is planting a church there. He too has experienced the harsh life of a village far from water. When water first gushed from the new well, villagers could not contain their joy! At its dedication, the pastor shared how the free gift of water is a picture of God’s free gift of salvation through the coming of Jesus, our Savior and the Giver of Life.

Two months later, the pastor had unexpected guests. Two veiled Muslim women came seeking an audience with him. This highly unusual visit surprised the pastor, so he was eager to listen. 

They began, “We are here on our own even though we may be speaking for the lives of many women in this village, thank you! Since we now have a borehole in our community, we no longer walk long distances in search of, and compete for drinking water with cows and sheep. We now have confidence that our water and food are without germs. Having easy access to water has given us time to care for our families, and to do our house chores with ease. Our children who slept during school because of tiredness from carrying water are now alert and active learners.”

Then they revealed the real reason for their visit, saying, “But pastor, the reason above all that we are here is to inform you that we were greatly moved and challenged by your speech during the commissioning. We have pondered on the well as a free gift from Call of Hope, and Jesus as the free giver of life. We have decided that we would like to receive the free gift that Jesus gives! We want to be followers of Jesus, but we do not know how to go about it.”

This thrilled the pastor, who quickly shared how they can live a life of faith in Jesus, as they place their faith and trust in Him! The church is growing in Sambu and other locations where Call of Hope offers water as an expression of God’s free gift of life!

Call of Hope has identified 33 other villages in Ghana alone, that desperately need water wells. Each well costs about $3,500 to drill. Would you consider offering this free gift to villagers thirsty for God’s love with a donation today?

Syrian Refugee Woman Receives New Life in Christ!

Ashia was raised in a Sunni Muslim family in Aleppo, Syria. There, at age 16, she was introduced to her husband, before moving away from her home village to his. Ashia’s husband began to work outside of the country, leaving her frequently to raise their family alone. Life was very difficult for Ashia as the fanatic Muslim community was controlling virtually every aspect of her life. This made her question not only her faith, but also her way of living!

Ashia knew nothing about Christians except that they “worship an idol called Jesus.” And when she would question aspects of Christianity, she was simply told that “Christians were infidels” and then was forbidden to ask any more.

Ashia grew upset, as more and more restrictions were imposed.  She said: “in my husband’s village, it was forbidden to wear a colored dress…it was forbidden to hold a purse, and so on.  Things became so restrictive that I began to hate my religion, and even my country Syria!” 

But she had nowhere else to go, so she stayed in Aleppo and served her family.

Then, the war in Syria began. Ashia had to flee with her children. They made the treacherous journey to Lebanon where they rejoined her husband.

After five years in a refugee camp, the family was finally able to settle in Zahle. That is where they heard about the Christians from Call of Hope for the first time. Now she could see what Christians were really like!

In her new community, Ashia still faced persecution from local Muslims who were criticizing her every move. Things got worse when Ashia sent her daughters to a Christian school, even though they had not yet set foot in a Christian church. But when Ashia heard about weekly women’s meetings at the church she decided to find out for herself what it was about.

Ashia joins our weekly women’s ministry meetings

Sister Sara, one of our leading frontline workers in Lebanon, noticed that Ashia began faithfully coming to the weekly meetings. Finally, Sis. Sara was able to meet with Ashia and hear her story.

A refugee mother brings her children to the Call of Hope center for a day of Bible studies, life-saving aid, and Christian literature.

Ashia explained where she came from and what her family had endured. She told of her limited experience with Christians and her desire to know more. Then, she said that the love for Muslims attributed to Call of Hope was both tangible and real, making her more curious.

She continued to attend the church services and women’s meetings. She had many discussions with former Muslims and COH leaders about Jesus. They answered her questions, and she was able to see how they genuinely loved and cared for her! Then, last year she made the ultimate decision to follow Jesus as her Lord and Savior! Today, Ashia is attending church and women’s meetings, studying God’s Word, enjoying fellowship with others, and growing in her new life in Christ!

More Opposition and Violence in India towards Christian Men and Women

Almost 200,000,000 Muslims live in India! Even though Indians 1.4 billion inhabitants are largely Hindu, 14% of the country follow Islam.

Meanwhile, for 2.3% of the population that embrace Christianity, persecution has grown worse during the last couple of years. The countries Hindu nationalist government is exerting tremendous pressure on Christian believers and is trying to stop all evangelistic activity. Most of the individual Indian states have even passed anti-conversion laws, outlawing, or making it very difficult to change religions.

Our co-workers have reported the recent arrest of dozens of missionaries and pastors on the charge of engaging in missionary activities. Also, our teams often have to endure increasing harassment and even beatings during their evangelistic outreaches. Still, our Indian brothers and sisters are zealous and passionate about reaching Muslims in India with the Gospel, and many Muslims are coming to faith in Christ!

For some of these new converts, especially women, the decision to follow Christ can carry with it great risk and danger! To support and encourage these women, Call of Hope has focused strategies to reach, empower, and uplift, marginalized women in Muslim countries.

In India, female economic participation is among the lowest in the world. The situation for former Muslim women, now following Jesus, is even more dire.

One of our graduates sharing and reading from the front during graduation ceremonies last month.

At Call of Hope sewing schools in Pakistan and India, women are learning tailoring and alteration skills, as well as the economic basics of effectively operating a small business! Around fifty women graduate from the school each year, and most go on to start successful businesses, and many become followers of Christ!

Join Us In Prayer This Year  

As we prepare for the next class of young women to come learn and grow in our tutoring centers, please join us in giving thanks to our Heavenly Father for last month's graduating class. Please also pray for:

  • Guidance and protection for last year's class as they go forth with their sewing machines and new skills.

  • Daily safety in India for our coworkers and students as anti-Christian attacks increase.

  • Continued good relationships between our coworkers and the families of the sewing students.

  • Further interest fostered in the hearts and minds of the students as they worship and study the Gospel in our centers.

Lastly, if you would like to offer a young lady a brighter future, as well as provide her a sewing machine, prayerfully consider a gift to support our efforts to empower young women, and touch their lives with the love of Jesus! They need your help today!

 
 

Garbage Collector Declares, “For the First Time in My Life I Felt Like a Human Being!”

Call of Hope is reaching refugees with the love of God!!

Call of Hope co-workers, Bro. Rashid and his wife, Dr. Ida, who is a dentist, frequently visit the slums and refugee camps that surround Baghdad to provide aid, medical care and hope. Hundreds of thousands of families and children reside in these camps, trying to make a living from the garbage. Twenty-eight-year-old, Miqdad, is one of them. Recently, Migdad had the opportunity to earn some money, as a temporary garbage collector an International Trade Fair which ½ million people attended in Baghdad. Bro. Rashid and his wife had a special permit to participate in this major fair to hand out calendars and books. 

The gospel reaches the refugee camps around Baghdad. Many Muslims listen with great interest.

Bro. Rashid noticed Miqdad at the fair. Being a garbage collector, he showed an unusual interest in our stand. He frequently watched us and seemed to be listening as they talked with the guests. Someone even were warned: ‘Surely, this young man is an undercover police officer. Be careful!’ One of our volunteer co-workers said: ‘Our Lord also shed his precious blood for members of the secret service. Shouldn’t spies also be saved?’

Our team offered Migdad a cup of coffee and Miqdad told us how from the first day of the fair he had taken a liking to our wall calendar. In particular, the verse on cover that says, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). 

“For the first time in my life I felt like a human being”

He said: ‘I have observed how kind you treat your Muslim guests, giving this wonderful calendar and your books. So, I secretly wished to be one of these guests – who are well dressed, who surely have a good occupation, and are enjoying your hospitality. Myself, however, I am only a cleaner, whom people despise and abuse. I would have never imagined that you, dear Christians, would present me, the garbage collector with this same honor and give me the same calendar and booklets. For the first time in my life, I felt like a human being.’

Miqdad became a constant visitor to our booth. Listening to the reading of the Bible and asking questions. On November 11th , one day after the end of the fair, Miqdad gave his life to Jesus Christ. On November 12th

he tragically died during a work-related accident, as he came into contact with a high voltage power cable. He is now with his Savior.

During the fair, the Lord helped us to hand out more than 6,000 wall calendars with Bible verses, 4,000 evangelistic booklets and 800 New Testaments. Many also received the address of our church, including a judge, a car salesman, a jeweler, a university professor, a lieutenant with the army, a police superintendent and also Miqdad, the refugee garbage collector.


Another Child Receives the Lord, and a Quality Education...with a Little Help from a Simple Goat!

This kind of visit has become a regular for Brother Abdul, and it certainly has not gotten old for him. As one of our leading frontline workers in Nigeria, he frequents different rural villages of northern Nigeria, aiding in the distribution of goats for the Goat Project.

During his most recent trip, to a specific rural village*, Brother Abdul saw a familiar face appear.

a young boy saved and changed by a goat

A young man approached Bro. Abdul and immediately began thanking him!

In villages like this, many families survive through subsistence farming that leaves little for extras, like schooling. And if the family happens to be Christian, in this Muslim majority area, they face prejudice and oppression as well. For this young man that approached Bro. Abdul, however, a difference had been made.

The young man introduced himself as Ibrahim* and then shared his story. It began many years ago with the receiving of a goat from Call of Hope while he was a child, living in the very same village.

Ibrahim had not expected such a gift. The impact of the kindness shown from our frontline workers stayed with him and he went on to give his life to Christ with their help!

After receiving a female goat and instruction through our Goat Project, he was able to use what he had learned to begin selling his goat’s offspring. The income provided him enough money to successfully finish both primary and secondary schooling.

Today, Ibrahim is in university!

University and faith started with a single goat

Ibrahim is one of many children now who have been able to go on to receive a full education because of the income blessing them and their families. It all started with a goat.

Thank you from Ibrahim!

*Information changed or omitted for security reasons.

How The Herd is Changing Entire Communities

“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” I Cor. 1:27 NIV

God used a goat to save Musah.  It may sound foolish, but it’s true!

Musah’s poor father died when he was young, putting he and his mother deeper into poverty.  They live in northern Ghana, where many families survive through subsistence farming that leaves little for extras, like schooling.  And if the family happens to be Christian, in this Muslim majority area, they face prejudice and oppression as well. Children who long to go to school, instead often must head into the fields or become water carriers to help the family survive.  Life has been like this for generations, with no way to break the cycle of poverty.  Until now!

Call of Hope’s Goat Project is changing that!  By gifting female goats to village children, COH makes it possible for them to raise funds by selling that goat’s offspring – year after year.  The proceeds pay school fees, buy uniforms, books and school supplies, so children can attend school.  The result is life changing in more ways than one!

The Goat Project was started to help children of Christian families who were suffering because of their faith.  But those same Christian families wanted to show God’s love to their Muslim neighbors despite the persecution. They asked COH to distribute goats to Muslim families as well, even though it may delay their children receiving goats. This display of love shocked their neighbors and opened the door for them to share about Jesus! Not only has persecution diminished, but many goat recipients actively seek to know more about the Gospel and are coming to faith in Christ!

That is what happened with Musah.  Musah’s mother, a devote Muslim, struggled to send him to school.  She borrowed money from everyone so he could attend classes. But they were barely surviving.

One Saturday Musah was visiting a classmate, Daledem, in another village when Call of Hope arrived to distribute goats. Upon receiving his goat, Daledem begged the distribution team to give one to Musah too, even though he did not live in their village. Glory to God, there was an extra goat available and Musah received one too!

Astonished Musah asked why his friend helped him in such a remarkable way!  Daledem replied, “God said in the Bible we should love our neighbors as we love ourselves.” Struck by this simple but powerful answer Musah said that he wanted to know this God. The next day, Daledem took him to the village Pastor, one of Call of Hope’s frontline workers. Musah asked the pastor a lot of questions, and finally gave his life to Jesus!

With profound joy in his heart and his new goat tailing behind, Musah returned home. Every Sunday after, he made the long walk to church in Daledem’s village.  But being the only Christian in his village, Musah’s new faith was not received well. Twice Musah’s family threatened to cut him off from the family because of his faith in Jesus. But even as a child, he stood firm saying, “I have seen the light is so bright, I have gone too far to return to Islam!”

God has faithfully protected and prospered Musah! Proceeds from his goat’s offspring has allowed him to complete junior high school and begin high school.  All his school fees, school uniforms, books and supplies had been covered. In fact, sales from Musah’s goats have brought financial stability, hope and joy to his mother too. His mother testified that since they’ve had the goats they have not borrowed from their neighbors for anything; stating they now live dignified lives.

God used Musahs’ goat to save him from poverty, but even more importantly, to save his soul!

Thank you for supporting the Goat Project and saving the lives of vulnerable children in Ghana, Nigeria and Kenya. God has used your gifts to touch, transform and bring hope to individuals, families and whole communities through goats!

One Year Later in Afghanistan...

Last August, the unthinkable occurred: the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan. Waves of refugees clamored to escape, many crossing borders into the neighboring countries of Pakistan and India.

Immediately, our faithful prayer partners around the world began to intercede, while our frontline workers were on location meeting and caring for the refugees. Essentials like food, shelter, and medicine were a desperate need; and with your support we were able to provide them to grateful families.

Since then, our frontline workers have established vocational training and tutoring centers in the refugee communities to help them start a new life where God has placed them. And we are seeing the fruit off these projects!

Nagina and Aria (pictured above) are two young refugee girls who have just come to a church for the first time in their lives. As Muslims from Afghanistan, they had never heard the Gospel message or experienced the kindness of God.  But the unconditional love and joy they saw in our co-workers, drew them. The congregation was excited to have them, as was Brother John, an English instructor who invited them!

As they hear the Word of God, it is impacting their lives – and they want to know more! God is doing an amazing work and for this we are truly grateful!

Many other Afghanis are curious about the Lord Jesus.  Our teams arereaching out to them as well. Please pray for Nagina, Aria, and all other Afghanis that the Lord is drawing to Himself as we continue to surround them with the love and care of Jesus.

Please also prayerfully consider supporting our work in Afghanistan as we continue to minister the love of Jesus to those in need!

What is a Frontline Worker?

Today, all across the Islamic world, God is using a seemingly unlikely group of people to reach Muslims with the Gospel message. 

From the remote villages of Nigeria, to the islands of Indonesia, to the arid Middle East and beyond; Former Muslims are reaching their neighbors with the message of Christ! 
The entire ministry of Call of Hope has been built on the courageous and passionate service of these “Frontline Workers". They brave separation from families, extreme persecution, and even death, to return to their people and boldly proclaim the hope that is found in Christ!

YOU CAN PLAY A LARGE AND VITAL PART IN WHAT GOD IS DOING TO BRING LOST MUSLIMS TO HIMSELF IN THE ISLAMIC WORLD. BY HELPING TO SPONSOR A FRONTLINE WORKER FOR $29, YOU CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT TODAY! 

How Three Lebanese Soldiers Came to Christ Together

Three men, working as soldiers in Lebanon, see the love of Christ transform their lives.

Only recently, the head of the military police in Lebanon announced to his soldiers: “The coming days are very dangerous, our needs will increase and the security situation is about to collapse, but you need to be strong in order to keep our security in this beloved country!”

These are shocking words, and perhaps what is even more shocking is that these very soldiers are finding hope and love in Christ!

For one of these soldiers, Abdel, the journey was gradual.

Abdel had always thought Islam was the answer for him, but this began to change as he saw Muslims turning to Christ in his community. His curiosity began to grow and he began attending Call of Hope’s Sunday service; and soon his excitement grew too, as these new converts were living new lives. Soon, Abdel was attending the service every week, without fail!

After several months, Abdel could no longer watch from the pews, and he gave his life to Christ!

Immediately, during his meetings with our Frontline Workers, a burden became clear on his heart. He was asking questions, and learning more about Christ, but he wanted more than anything to share the Gospel with his friend, Gabir.

Gabir was a soldier Abdel had known well for years. Recently, however, Gabir fell into dark times, after suffering a car accident that paralyzed him in both legs. With great sadness, he even struggled with suicide for a time. Now, to make matters worse for Gabir, his good friend Abdel was now a Christian!

This made Gabir angry. “How dare you talk about Christ and you become a Christian, I want to break my friendship with you…” he said.

Abdel was patient with his friend, encouraging him to listen, saying, “Hear me first and later you can decide about our friendship.”

Gabir did listen, and allowed Abdel to even bring our Frontline Workers into the conversation. Miraculously, he continued listening, and, then, he gave his life to Jesus! The change in Gabir’s life was so apparent that people noticed something was different. First to notice was his brother, Hakim.

Hakim, a fellow soldier, lives with Gabir as his caretaker, so he was quick to see the staggering change. Gabir had been known for his sadness and even his struggles with trying to take his own life. The sadness in his life affected his own life and those around him, including his family. But today, he is saying, “I was sad because I lost my legs, I cannot walk but I give thanks to the Lord because I did lose my two legs, but Jesus my Lord saved my whole life.”

Hakim was so moved by the power of Christ in his brother’s life that he accepted Jesus into his own life.

Now, these three men are closer than ever. They will learn to lean on each other in the tough times expected by their superiors in the army. Lebanon is seeing continued economic crisis and daily struggle. Eighty-five percent of the population are considered in dire need, and we thank God that he has prepared these men for a time like this.

If you feel the Lord is calling you to reach others in Lebanon like Abdel, Gabir, and Hakim, please prayerfully consider partnering with us. Thank you, and blessings!

Free From Boko Haram Captivity

Nigerian women gathering for chores

Ola begins her new life.

Ola was just 14 years old when Boko Harm attacked her village. Her entire family was taken into captivity, and her father was savagely killed by the terrorists. A few months later her mother and 3 of her siblings managed to escape; but Ola and her 2 younger brothers could not!

Ola was forcibly married to a Boko Haram commander when she was just 15, leaving her in great despair. Over the years she desperately attempted to escape several times but was unable to get away. When fighting broke out between the Islamic States West African Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram, in all the chaos and confusion, she was finally able to escape her captors. Soon after, the Nigerian Army found her and brought her to join her family at the refugee camp in Maiduguri, where Call of Hope operates a school. There she found food, shelter, and the loving care and counsel of the Call of Hope team, demonstrating the love of Jesus!

In fact, Call of Hope frontline workers have continued to minister throughout northern Nigeria in spite of on-going attacks by Boko Haram, ISWAP and Fulani Bandits. Though extremely dangerous, our teams have experienced God’s protection and provision as they carry supplies, Bibles and Christian literature to villages and refugee camps throughout the region. During the first three months of 2022, our co-workers have delivered 1,330 Bibles in English and Hausa to replace those that were burned during raids, as well as other literature to build up the suffering church. They also recently distributed rice, corn, cooking oil, flour, milk, noodles, children’s clothing and other essentials in 4 refugee camps.

When Ola heard about the Call of Hope school in the camp, she immediately asked if she too could be taught. She was so anxious to learn and grow in her academics and in God’s Word! Although she is now 20 years old, she is starting in the elementary school, along with 18 other children recently rescued from Boko Haram. Ola is not ashamed to learn with the younger ones; she has forgotten the little she learned before her captivity and is eager to pick up the pieces of her life and move forward. Ola also wants to learn tailoring. Her main concern, however, is for the survival and safety of her 2 younger brothers who are still held by Boko Haram. She asks for us all to remember them in prayer!

Prayer Points:

1.    Ask the Lord to rescue Ola’s 2 brothers and the other children still held by terrorists.

2.    Pray for the children and families in the Camps, that they come to know Christ and that He provide them a future of peace and provision.

3.    Ask for the Lord’s continued strength and protection for Frontline workers, as they navigate in traitorous regions of northern Nigeria.

4.    Pray that doors will be open to reach other camps with the help and hope of Christ. 

Sister Barongo's Inspiring Women's Day Story

“But I will stay on …because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.“ I Cor. 16:8-9

Sister Barongo is one of 18 teachers in the Call of Hope primary school in the north of Kenya, an Islamic stronghold controlled by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group. She helps teach and train the 620 children at the award-winning school. Her devotion to the children and to the Lord is unwavering in spite of terrible suffering. 

When she is not teaching, Sister Barongo tirelessly travels to surrounding villages to distribute our evangelistic literature. Because of this she has received on-going threats from the militants to persuade her to stop. “We will visit you. You will scream in pain and open your mouth until we see your last tooth.” She was not dissuaded. Then they told her: “These are no longer warnings. We are already here - very close: get away from here with all your books!” She continued anyway, saying, “I will not leave - this is my place. I will witness Jesus every day!”

That is when Sister Barongo received a chilling message, “‘You can pick up your boy.”  Her 7-year-old son was drowned and left next to a village well on Nov. 28, 2021

In spite of her grief, Sister Barongo has committed to stay. She says, “We must continue our work as before. My son Mudomi is now at the Lord’s breast. He can feel the heartbeat of his heavenly Father. The heartbeat of His love.” The other teachers feel the same, they are all devoted to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ no matter what. They say, “Even if the same thing happens to us, we will stay.”  Like the Apostle Paul, they see a great door for effective work and chose to be God’s messengers of hope, regardless of the opposition.

Sister Barongo is one of many faithful women co-workers who witness of the love and mercy of God in dangerous, difficult places. On this International Women’s Day, please pray for Sister Barongo, as well as the other teachers at our school in Kenya. Pray also for women throughout the Muslim world who joyfully serve the Lord with little thought for their own lives; as well as the widows and children of co-workers who have given their lives for the sake of the Gospel.

Would you also consider supporting the important work of these faithful ones? A gift towards our Women’s Ministry fund will help spread the Good News to those who do not yet know Him! 

Thank you for praying and helping reach Muslims for Christ!

A praise report to start the new year!

With every new year comes new challenges, but be encouraged, God is faithful in every season! Nobody knows this better than Call of Hope’s Director in East India, Brother Gulati. You may remember the urgent prayer request we sent out when brother Gulati contracted a very serious variant of COVID 19 last year.

“When my husband’s oxygen level deteriorated significantly, we desperately sought admission to an emergency hospital. However, the hospitals in Lucknow strictly refused to admit a COVID patient. It was getting late, the evening curfew came into effect and we were still wandering the streets,” his wife recalls. Finally after searching for hours they were admitted to a clinic at 11 pm.

Doctors did not give Brother Gulati much hope for making it to the new year, but we know that we serve the Great Physician! We urgently asked you, our prayer partners, to faithfully intercede for his recovery – and God answered with a Miracle!

Slowly, Gulati’s condition began to improve. After weeks of treatment in an intensive care unit, he was discharged from the hospital and free to go home. Although he was still very weak and had lost a significant amount of weight, he rejoiced in the strength of Jesus!

“When I found myself in the valley of death a few weeks ago, I had to think back to the day many years ago when I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior. At that time, my Muslim friends abandoned me only because I wanted to follow Jesus. But I can testify today, at 52 years old, that God has never abandoned me! Just as Jesus promised in John 14:18, ‘I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.’” 

As we enter the new year, be encouraged that the same God who healed brother Gulati is with you today! Whatever challenges you may be facing today, Jesus is with you!

When You Meet a Muslim

Muslims, regardless of whether they come from Asia or Africa, love to engage in conversations about life, culture, and sometimes even religion.  Call of Hope has been working to spread the Gospel message among Muslims for over 100 years. However, before engaging a Muslim in a religious conversation there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Not Every Muslim is familiar with Islam

Like many Christians, Muslims may not have a depth of knowledge regarding their theology. The religious knowledge of most Muslims is limited to a few short chapters of the Quran and some quick prayers in Arabic, the holy language of Islam. Because Mohammed received the Quran in Arabic, most Muslims only accept the Quran in that language. This is why Islamic ritual prayers are performed in Arabic.  Since 80% of all Muslims in the world don’t speak Arabic, they don’t understand much about Islam.

Many Muslims are unfamiliar with Christianity

The majority of Muslims are unfamiliar with Christianity. Even many highly educated Muslims have never heard of the Old and New Testament. They are taught that the Bible is an unclean book, so the Bible often needs to be explained. Because of their adoration of the Quran, their holy book, it is important that Muslims learn more about the Bible.  This could include how the Bible was created, which books are in the Bible and why we have four Gospel accounts.

Every Muslim Is Different

When talking to a Muslim about Jesus, one should keep in mind that they are just people. They have the same human weaknesses and needs as anyone else. Most are not even very religious, even though they want to give that impression.  Their individual interests, dreams, fears and challenges shape who they are and what they believe.

There are ethnic debates between Muslims

Most Muslims identify first with their cultural heritage as Turks, Arabs, Kurds, and Persians etc.; then as Muslims.  The solidarity of a global Islamic community (Ummah) is a myth. Muslims are deeply divided ethnically and theologically. Just look at the conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran. There is division between Shia and Sunni as well as many other sects and fraternities, which hate each other. Even more confusing are the divisions prevalent just among Sunni Muslims, which represent 90% of the more than one billion Islamic adherents. There are also the Islamic Mystics, who highly revere the founder of their order and attribute to him greater miracles than Mohammed has ever performed, according to Quran. Wahhabis and many Salafists declare this kind of Muslims to be heretics.

Debates with Muslims aren't Helpful

Starting a theological debate will not “win” over Muslims.  Instead try to bring the Good News to them, giving them the opportunity to access it.  Be willing, however, to engage in earnest, respectful and clear conversations about faith and God. For instance, if a Muslim asks what Christianity thinks about Mohammed, we can clearly and respectfully answer that Christians do not see him as a prophet of God. 

Please consider giving a gift today to partner with Call of Hope in spreading The Gospel amongst Muslims who are looking for answers to life's tough question.